Walk and talk together with friends and family or take a relaxing stroll by yourself. Not only will you be boosting your own mental health – your steps will also help give brighter futures to children and young people with mental illness.
What is 5k in a Day?
5k in a Day is a sponsored virtual walking event and opportunity to walk solo or catch up with friends and family, whilst doing something healthy.
Get out and about – striking out on your own or together as a group – get sponsored and find a new walk or tread a favourite route on World Mental Health Day (10 October).
Get started
Join our 5k in a day Facebook Group to find your community of fellow 5kers and to register. Fill out our quick form (in the group) to receive your FREE t-shirt and fundraising pack.
You’ll find all the instructions you need in the group, including how to set up your Facebook Donate page and get fundraising. This is our chance to do something life-changing. To redefine how we care for growing minds and reshape what’s to come. Click the link below to get started now!
Any questions?
We’d love to help – drop us a line on support@maudsleycharity.org and our friendly team will be happy to help.
FAQS
Does it have to be 5k?
No, you can walk another distance if you feel 5k is too far or not far enough. It’s all about getting active, getting together with friends and family and raising funds!
Does it have to be the 10th October?
We’re aiming for everyone in the Facebook group to take part on the same day in celebration of World Mental Health Day. If you can do the 10th it will be fantastic! If that date just doesn’t work in the diary, feel free to take part on another date that does work.

Do I run or walk it?
It’s entirely up to you! You could even do a combination of both if you prefer. Make sure you listen to your body though if you are getting any aches and pains or feel too tired.
Where does my money go?
Your money will support the work of Maudsley Charity and the Change the Story campaign. We will make sure we use every penny of your fundraising to back better mental health for children and young people.
Do I have to use Facebook Donate?
We’re encouraging everyone to use Facebook Donate as it’s a simple, easy and secure way to raise funds. Visit our Facebook Group for info on how to get started. Not on Facebook? No problem, you can set up a Virgin Money Giving Page instead, just search for “Maudsley Charity” (not THE Maudsley Charity, or you won’t find us!)

How should I track my distance?
There’s lots of free and accurate trackers out there which you can easily download to your smartphone for free. You can track your distance using your smartphone with a free Strava account, but if you have a Fitbit or similar you can use that. Your phone might even track your walking distance automatically in your health app.
Where can I go if I have a question?
Say hello on our Facebook group and our team will be able to get back to you, or you can contact us on support@maudsleycharity.org